AO 2026 Fashion: Osaka’s “Jellyfish” entrance and Opelka’s expensive kit – What’s next?

Written by: Stefan Jonsson | January 22, 2026
osaka entrance australian open

The Grand Slams usually gives us some crazy outfits and fashion shows nowadays. The 2026 Australian Open has also partly transformed into a high-fashion runway this week, as two big personalities, Naomi Osaka and Reilly Opelka, dominated social media for their choices in apparel rather than just their game. Most likely this is just the start to the fashion headlines in the coming days.

Naomi Osaka’s ‘Jellyfish’ Grand Entrance

Former world No. 1 Naomi Osaka made what many are calling the most dramatic entrance in tennis history during her first-round match against Antonia Ruzic. Stepping onto Rod Laver Arena, Osaka was draped in a multi-layered, ethereal ensemble that she described as being inspired by a jellyfish. See image on top.

The look, a collaboration between Nike and London-based designer Robert Wun, featured:

  • A wide-brimmed white hat topped with a butterfly.
  • A flowing white veil and a matching parasol.
  • Turquoise and seafoam green “tentacle” frills on her warm-up jacket.
  • Crisp, pleated white trousers worn over her match dress.

Osaka revealed the idea came to her while reading a book to her daughter, Shai. “There was an image of a jellyfish, and when I showed it to her she got so excited,” Osaka said. The outfit also featured a butterfly motif, a nod to the famous moment a butterfly landed on her face during her 2021 title run.

Reilly Opelka’s $1,340 Luxury Kit

While Osaka focused on avant-garde design, American giant Reilly Opelka went viral for the sheer luxury of his attire. Known for his interest in art and high fashion, Opelka took to the court wearing a kit from the Italian luxury brand Sease.

opelka kit ao 2026

The price tag for the ensemble was debated in the tennis community:

  • Shorts: ~$500 (€480)
  • Polo/Shirt: ~$500 (€480)
  • Cap: ~$340 (€330)
  • Total: $1,340

The 6’11” American has long moved away from traditional tennis sponsors, opting instead for high-end “quiet luxury” brands. While the fluorescent trend has dominated most of the 2026 tournament, Opelka’s understated but incredibly expensive kit served as a stark contrast to the bright oranges and greens seen on other players. Someone also commented and asked if he was going out on a safari…

Read also about some of the main brands AO 2026 collections here.

It seems like fashion, both on and off the court is increasing each year on tour, let us know your comments on this below!

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Stefan Jonsson

Stefan is a writer at Tennisnerd since 2023 and keep the readers updated on new events, betting tips and general tennis news.